Research Using Biometrics Ltd Sensors and Instrumentation in Ergonomics

Manuel Lopez-Nicolas, Jose A. Garc?a-Vidal, Francesc Medina-Mirapeix, Joaqu?n P. Sanchez-Onteniente, Juan D. Berna Mestre, Rodrigo Mart?n-San Agust?n, Mar?a P. Escolar-Reina

Biometrics Ltd DataLINK and EMG sensors were used on a group of 36 dentists to measure trunk muscles to compare different ergonomic supports while performing simulated dental procedures.

MeredithMcQuerry

Range of motion measurements taken with Biometrics LTD DataLOG and Goniometers in this comparison between male and female firefighters assessing the fit and function of their special protective gear.

Jose A. Garc?a-Vidal, Manuel Lopez-Nicolas, Ana C. Sanchez-Sobrado, Mar?a P. Escolar-Reina, Francesc Medina-Mirapeix and Roberto Bernabeu-Mora

Ergonomic supports were compared during simulated dental procedures by measuring muscle activity of the neck and shoulders with Biometrics Ltd DataLINK and EMG sensors.

Istvan Balogh, Inger Arvidsson, Jonas Bjork, Gert-Ake Hansson, Kerstina Ohlsson, Staffan Skerfving and Catarina Nordander. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders (2019) 20:139

This long term ergonomic study, over a period of 25 years, utilized Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers to measure the postures and velocities of the right wrist.

M Wilson Kumar, S J Vijay, K L Vasudev, S Darius Gnanaraj

This ergonomic study utilized Biometrics Ltd DataLOG, EMG sensors and software to determine the best hight for the handle of a shopping trolley.

Catherine Trask, Brenna Bath, Stephan Milosavljevic, Aaron M. Kociolek, Bernardo Predicala, Erika Penz, Olugbenga Adebayo, Lee Whittington

This project compared conventional needles with needleless injectors in terms of cost, productivity, injury rates, biomechanical exposures, and worker preferrences. Biometrics Ltd DataLOG and EMG sensors were used to maesure hand/wrist muscle activity on swine workers performing injection tasks with both injection methods. Data was collected for several hours over two days.

Susan S. McDonald, David Levine, Jim Richards, Lauren Aguilar. PeerJ 4:e 1667

This study utilises Biometrics Ltd Goniometers to quantify the range of motion for the finger and thumb joints of subjects utilising three modified utensil handles. All subjects are provided with an experimental protocol which allows for finger and thumb range of motion to be collected in triplicate under each test condition. Results are discussed and compared to determine the relationship between handle size and range of motion. The impact of this study is also briefly discussed under future work.

Hyun Lee, Ji Heon Hong. The Journal of Physical Therapy Science 28: 585-588, 2016

This study aims to determine the muscle activity required during lifting and lowering tasks. Several Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors are applied to the subject prior to their completion of each task. EMG data is then analysed and presented to confirm which task required most muscle activation and was therefore most likely to cause injury. A discussion highlights the importance of safety for workers who regularly lift and lower heavy goods.

Ming-I Brandon Lin, Ruei-Hong Hong, Jer-Hao Chang, Xin-Min Ke. PLoS ONE 10(12) publish Date: December 2, 2015

This study aims to discover the effects of keyboard usage and how different keyboard styles can influence these. Biometrics Ltd Goniometers are used to quantify wrist and elbow joint angle of each subject throughout the study. Participants follow strict instructions which involve using different styles of keyboards in different seating/resting positions. Goniometer data along with other measured parameters from each test situation is compared and results are discussed.

Luis E Rodr?guez Cheu, Wilson A Sierra, Mar?a P. Acero, Carlos Ceballos. VI Latin American Congress on Biomedical Engineering CLAIB 2014

This study aims to investigate the risk of musculoskeletal injury amongst a study population who regularly carry out lifting tasks. Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors connected to the DataLOG are positioned on each participant before activities commence, this data along with other measured parameters is analysed using various statistical methods. Results are discussed to confirm which activities represent the greatest risk of injury and specifically what can be done to reduce this risk.

J. Sinclair, J. Toth, S. J. Hobbs. Kinesiology 45(2015)1:11-18

This study utilises acceleration data to help determine the optimum footwear when performing depth jumps. The Biometrics ACL300 Accelerometer is applied to the tibia of each subject to determine tibial acceleration during each movement; this data is combined with other measured parameters taken from subjects each wearing selected footwear to confirm if there is an ideal footwear option as well as determining the influence that footwear has on this jump.

P. Waongenngarm, B. S. Rajaratnam, P. Janwantanakul. Safety and Health at Work (2015) 1-6

Biometrics EMG sensors connected to the DataLOG unit are used in this study to determine the relationship between sitting position, muscle fatigue and perceived discomfort. The Biometrics DataLOG analysis software is used to process the EMG signals and these are separated into sections with each representing 10 minutes of sitting. The EMG data supports the perceived discomfort data to determine which position is most ergonomic.

A. Dufaug, L. Goujon, C. Barthod, N. Forestier, O. Skowron

This study utilises Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors to determine which of two surgical instruments is most ergonomic. EMG sensors are placed over specific muscles on the subject (an expert surgeon) while a surgical suture task is completed with each tool. Data is presented and discussed; the tool which when used resulted in lower muscle activity use is confirmed as the better of the two.

R. Hardie, R. Haskew, J. Harris, G. Hughes. Journal of Human Kinetics volume 45/2015, 39-47

Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors are positioned bilaterally across the shoulders and spine of subjects. Each subject is instructed to walk normally while wearing a variety of bags in order to determine if bag style and carrying method has an effect on muscle activity and subsequently contributes to lower back pain. All EMG data is analysed via the Biometrics Ltd DataLlNK Analysis Software (built in RMS filter) and compared to determine the "safest" bag style and carrying method.

Megan O. Conrad, Richard W. Marklin. J Ergonomics. Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorder 2014, S4:006

Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors are used to quantify which of the two Motorcycle clutch designs tested are the easiest to use. Muscle fatigue data is calculated within the DataLINK Analysis software by applying the Median Frequency filter to the raw EMG data. Muscle fatigue data is presented along with other measured parameters and discussed, the study concludes that muscle fatigue data is fundamental to assess the ergonomics of similar controls.

Evanda Henry, Stephanie Richmond, Nashrag Shah, Arijit Sengupta. The XXVIth Annual Occupational Ergonomics and Safety Conference - El Paso TX, June 5-6, 2014

This study focuses on comparing subject-rated comfort scores with quantified EMG measurements in order to determine the most ergonomical stylus grip. EMG data from Biometrics Ltd EMG electrodes connected to the DataLINK unit are used in this study, all data is analysed using the Biometrics Ltd DataLINK Analysis Software and presented in the results section. This study confirms that EMG data alone is not the only factor contributing to comfort scores.

Majid Motamedzade, Davood Afshari, Alireza Soltanian. Health Promotion Perspectives, 2014, 4(2), 144-150

This ergonomics study evaluates two 'carpet weaving' workstations and the effect that each has on shoulder EMG activity. Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors are applied bilaterally to the shoulder muscles of subjects, EMG sensors are connected to the DataLOG unit and data is collected over a four hour period for each workstation. A statistical analysis highlights the benefits of the ergonomically designed workstation and a brief discussion identifies the hazards of the traditional workstation, all conclusions are supported by the EMG data collected.

Thomas Heliskov-Hansenm Susanne Wulff Svendsen, Jane Fr?lund Thomsen, Sigurd Mikkelsen, Gert-Ake Hansson. PLoS ONE November 3, 2014

Bilateral wrist joint movements are recorded for a subject population containing an equal number of male and female participants all working in the painting industry. Biometrics Ltd SG75 Goniometers are used to record flexion/extension and radial/ulnar deviation of subjects completing a typical days' work. Questionnaire results are compared with the experimental statistics and discussed in order to confirm the differences between the two groups as well as the validity of the questionnaire used.

Nobuyoshi Hashimoto. Bulletin. Hiroshima Institute of Technology. Research Vol.49 (2015) 83-87

This study aims to determine the requirements of a welding simulator in order to reduce the risks involved with training inexperienced individuals. Subjects, including welding professionals and beginners, are instructed to perform several welding-based tasks while a Biometrics Ltd Goniometer, attached to the wrist, and Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors recorded valuable movement data. The data collected is presented along with the outcome of the welding tasks to confirm the significant differences between the two subject groups.

Brian C. Nairn, Nadia R. Azar and Janessa D.M. Drake. (2013) IIE Transactions on Occupational Ergonomics and Human Factors, 1:1, 76-81

Two Biometrics Ltd Goniometers are used per subject during this study; Goniometers are connected to the Biometrics DataLOG. The posture of participants within this study is monitored; both the spinal joint angles (two spinal locations) and pain scores are used to determine the long term effects of sitting at a computer/desk within an office environment.

Asmar Husain, Abid Ali Kahn, Faisal Hasan. 2013. International Journal of Advancements in Technology Vol.4, No. 1

This study utilises Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors connected to the DataLINK unit in order to document the effects of screwdriver handle ergonomics. Data is analysed using Biometrics Ltd DataLINK Analysis software and compared with comfort data along with productivity results. As the experimental variables change, data is collected and displayed with regards to each measured parameter.

Adam de Laveaga, Michael C. Wadman, Laura Wirth and M. Susan Hallbeck. Work 41 (2012) 4692-4698

Biometrics Ltd Goniometers, Torsiometers and EMG sensors were simultaneously used during this study. All sensors were connected to the DataLINK unit and data was analysed using the DataLINK analysis software. Subjects were instructed to complete several tasks to do with endotracheal intubation; a simulator was used and adjusted to monitor the effects of changing intubation posture.

Bernadette McCrorya, Bethany R. Lowndesa, Laura M. Wirtha, Adam E. de Laveagaa, Chad A. LaGrangeb and M. Susan Hallbeck. Work 41 (2012) 1884-1890

Biometrics Ltd Goniometers (SG65 and SG110) were applied to each subject's dominant wrist and elbow. A surgical simulator set up was used in order to document wrist flexion/extension and radial/ulnar deviation during LESS (Laproendoscopic Single-Site Surgery). The Goniometers were connected to the Biometrics Ltd DataLINK unit, all data was analysed using the DataLINK analysis software.

Rick Hall 2011. Focus on Tomorrow. WorkSafeBC

This study aims to quantify the forces that nurse uses when administering treatment, a comparison between traditional syringes and a prototype syringe is documented. A variety of Biometrics Ltd sensors are simultaneously connected to the DataLOG unit, F35 Goniometers are placed on the fingers while the SG65 is attached to the wrist. Flexiforce sensors are also used with the DataLOG unit, all angle and force data is captured using the DataLOG software. Study participants were instructed to follow the test protocol using each syringe so that results could be compared and discussed.

Ronald A Burgess, William F Pavlosky, R Terry Thompson. 2010. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 11:273

Biometrics Ltd Goniometers are applied to the wrists of study participants, all subjects are regular computer users. Goniometer data collected is used in combination with MRI data in order to document the effects of long term computer use on the wrist. A sub analysis included splitting subjects into either an asymptomatic or symptomatic group.

YT Chen, CY Chen, HW Liang, TR Chang, YH Hwang; Journal Of Occupational Safety and Health 18:p1-14 2010

Biometrics Ltd EMG used to monitor activities of extensor digitorum communis (EDC) and flexor digitorium superficialis (FDS) during various hand activities while the Biometrics Ltd Goniometer simultaneously measured the wrist movement and number of repetitions.

Vi, Peter 2009 Infrastructure Health and Safety Association

This comparative study utilises Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors connected to the DataLOG unit, EMG sensors are placed on the forearms of participants during the activity/data acquisition stage. All EMG data collected is presented in order to discuss the comparisons between two safety techniques used in the building and construction industry for ladder climbing. Participants wore the DataLOG unit on a belt around their waist as they climbed ladders using each safety device.

Gert-Ake Hansson, Istvan Balogh, Kerstina Ohlsson, Lothy Granqvist, Catarina Nordander, Inger Arvidsson, Ingrid Akesson, Jeanette Unge, Ralf Rittner, Ulf Stromberg, Staffan Skerfving. International Journal of Inductrial Ergonomics 39 (2009) 221-233

Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors and Goniometers were used for this extensive ergonomic study. EMG data from the forearm extensors and goniometry data from the wrist were collected simultaneously using the DataLOG unit. A large subject population was used involving workers from a wide range of industries in order to determine the effects on the wrist and forearm in different job roles.

Bennett, A. I. (2009) Rhodes University

Flexible TF sensors are inserted into industrial work boots and connected to the DataLOG unit. Subjects wearing these boots were instructed to carry out the specified push/pull exercises. Data collected, including body discomfort data communicated by the individual post exercise, is used to identify the relationship between response to push/pull exercise and the load and technique used.

Vi, Peter 2008 AHFE International Conference

Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors were used in this study in order to compare muscle activity between two sanding techniques. The EMG sensors were connected to the Biometrics Ltd DataLOG unit and data was analysed post acquisition. Findings from this study are useful to the building and construction industry as they highlight some egronomical limitations of new techniques/equipment.

A V Savescu, M L Latash and V M Zatsiorsky; University Of Limerick Ireland; Healthcare Systems Ergonomics and Patient Safety (HEPS) Conference, Strasbourg, June 25-27, 2008

Biometrics Ltd DataLINK, Goniometers, and EMG were used to record wrist posture and forearm muscle activity in simulated endoscopy procedure.

T Jones, S Kumar; NORA Proceedings 2007 p103 -110

Biometrics Ltd Goniometer and Torsiometer used to measure motion of the wrist and forearm whilst subjects hammered saws.

A Trejo, MC Jung, D Oleynikov, MS Hallbeck; Applied Ergonomics 2007, 38: 745-753

One of the main ergonomic problems associated with laparoscopy is the surgeon's non-neutral position during surgery. The objective of this study was to evaluate a laparoscopic tool design by examining the effects of hand posture, target position and monitor angle on physical workload and operation efficiency during both insertion and aim tasks. Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers were used to measure wrist and elbow position. Biometrics Ltd EMG sensors were used to measure muscle activity in forearm and upper arm muscles.

P Jonsson, P Johnson, M Hagberg; Ergonomics 2007, vol 50, issue 5, pg 647-659

The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy and feasibility of using a Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometer for measuring simple thumb movements and concluded that electrogoniometers have utility for studying thumb movements during mobile phone use and may be used to evaluate other thumb-based input devices.

I Balough, K Ohlsson, GA Hansson, T Engstrom, S Skerving; International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics 2006, 36:353-365

Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers were used for measuring work postures and movements of the wrists of production line workers in a company processing wooden boards for parquet flooring.

Y Toshihiko, T Kumiko, I Hidemi, K Mikiko, F Kimie, T Katsuyuki, M Katsumi; Journal of Human Nursing Studies 2006, vol 3, pg 11-21

Biometrics Ltd SX230 EMG sensors were used to measure to muscle function.

Andrew N Rimell, Neil J Mansfield. 2005. Presented at the 40th United Kingdom Conference on Human Response to Vibration.

This study aimed to document the vibrational effects of machine operator seats, the Biometrics DataLOG unit is used as the supporting instrumentation for all sensors used. All participants were measured before the experiment begun; a sub analysis of seat type is also presented within the results whereby the participants remained constant to ensure a fair comparison.

YP Liu, HC Chen, CY Chen; Journal of Medical and Biological Engineering 2005, 26(1):12-28

Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers and EMG sensors were used for onsite measurement of the physical workload of workers, including head and neck of a truck driver and wrist and forearm of a punch press operator.

M Stal, S Pinzke, GA Hansson, C Kolstrup; Ann Agriculture Environmental Medicine 2003, 10:67-72

Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers were used to measure bilateral wrist flexion/extension and radial/ulnar deviation in the ergonomics study of milkers while working in a modern rotary milking system.

K Babski-Reeves, L Crumption-Young; Ergonomics 2003, vol 46, no 7, 747-759

Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers and instrumentation was used in this ergonomics study of 53 workers in a fish processing facility.

HG Coury, R Padula; Clinical Biomechanics 2002, 17:309-311

Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometer and instrumentation used in this study to compare two groups of workers with and without upper limb musculoskeletal symptoms when simulating handling tasks, regarding trunk movements and load support.

M Coppieters, M Van de Velde, K Stappaerts; Anestiesiology 2002, 97:75-81

Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers and instrumentation were used to measure wrist and elbow motion with four variations of the brachial plexus tension test.

Effects of progressive levels of industrial automation on force and repetitive movements of the wrist

Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometer and Torsiometer were used with a Biometrics Ltd datalogger to record wrist movements of workers in a multinational company for producing office products. A Biometrics Ltd P100 Pinchmeter was used for recording the maximum pinch strength and the job simulated pinch strength.

GA Hansson, I Balogh, K Ohlsson, B Palsson, L Rylander, S Skerving; Applied ergonomics 2000, 31:301-310

Wrist positions and movements were recorded bilaterally, for both the flexion/extension and the deviation angles using Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers and datalogger.

I Akesson, GA Hansson, I Balough, U Moritz, S Skerfving; International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health 1997, 69:461-474

Twelve right-handed female dentists (six with and six without a history of definite neck/shoulder disorders, pair-wise matched for age) were studied when performing authentic dental work. Biometrics Ltd electrogoniometers were used to measure the wrist movements.

GA Hansson, I Balogh, K Ohlsson, L Rylander, S Skerfving; Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology 1996, Vol 6, No. 1, pp 23-35

This study to gain objective and quantitative information concerning both static and dynamic aspects of workload on the wrist in field studies of fish processing industry workers with highly repetitive work and risk of CTD used a Biometrics Ltd biaxial flexible electrogoniometer and datalogger for recording of flexion and deviation angles of the wrist of the dominant hand. In order to evaluate forearm rotation a Biometrics Ltd Torsiometer, sensitive only to rotation and not influenced by flexion or deviation, was attached to the wrist.

K Ohlsson, GA Hansson, I Balough, U Stromberg, B Palsson, C Norander, L Rylander, S Skerfving; Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1994, 51: 826-832

Wrist angles of the dominant hand were measured for 32 randomly selected women during a total of 40 representative 20 minute work periods. A Biometrics Ltd twin axis electrogoniometer and a Datalogger were used for recording the flexion and extension, and the deviation angles of the wrist. The angular distributions, the angular velocity distributions, and the power spectra, were calculated to characterize the wrist movements during work.